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The Simple Solution That Keeps Snakes Out Of Birds’ Nest Box
By BARBARA PAVONE
Mounting a nest box to a tree or pole is a great way to encourage birds to your yard. To stop snakes from taking advantage of it for an easy meal, protect your box with a baffle.
For a nest box that has been mounted on a pole, DIY a stovepipe baffle using hardware cloth and a galvanized, metal pipe at least 8 inches in diameter and 24 to 36 inches long.
Cut a circle from the hardware cloth about 1 inch larger in diameter than your pipe, then create a hole in the middle so it can slide snugly over the pole supporting your nest box.
Secure the cloth in place, then attach two hanger iron straps to the nest box’s pole. Slide the DIY baffle on until it rests on the straps, leaving 1 inch between it and your box.
If DIYs aren’t your thing, you can use a ready-made, cone-shaped baffle instead. Ensure your box isn’t placed near any branches that snakes could use to access the nest from above.